my superstars by Mark Manzi for adidas originals.
my superstars
an introduction adidas has made a numerous number of iconic and memorable shoes. Along the brand’s long list of achievements, the superstar is a sneaker that has stood the test of time. Its unique shape and design we know today has been a result of it’s evolution from a pro basket ball sneaker. The superstar has become a sneaker for those that create. To celebrate the superstar I took to the streets of London to photograph the sneaker on those who wear them, the places they wear them and their own individual style. Each photograph is taken by chance on the street, composed naturally and carefully crafted. Accompanied with a few words about the sneaker from those who wear, and adore it.
London
3
5
“ They’re classic so they’re perfect as they are and there’s not that much you want to change.” NIGO
6
born in germany
8
“It’s the classic sneaker that can still be bought today. It’s been around for many years and it’s loved by everyone.” Robert Schultz
classic
10
worn by the greats The superstar made its way easily from the basketball court to the street. In 1983 Run-DMC refused to conform to pop standards by deciding that they would dress on stage the way they dressed on the streets. The trio was most noted for wearing the superstars without any laces and pushing the tongue of the shoe out.
11
“I love when things are transparent, free and clear of all inhibition and judgement.� Pharrell Williams 14
15
feel free to create and express yourself The adicolor concept was launched by adidas in 1983 where sneakers were sold with the tools that they could be customised by the purchaser. Š
This creative freedom that adidas gave its customers led to the superstar being a tool for people to express themselves and their creativity.
color
Š
timeless 17
“superstar is a perfect design. In other words it’s like a rule, an unbreakable rule.” NIGO
w or
worn riginally “I appriciate adidas for letting their footware to become the canvas to all these creative minds.� Pharrell Williams
20
21
23
on every street in every town
the three stripes the renowned three stripe company After purchasing the three stripes from sports brand Karhu Sports for the equivalent of ÂŁ1,267.96 and two bottles of whiskey, the three stripes are arguably the most recognised elements on adidas apparel.
25
27
successful personality adidas Films won a D&AD Award and Yellow Pencil for Excellence in short film. It’s not about being part of the crowd. It’s about standing out from the crowd.
29
31
express yourself recognisable design
Nicknamed the shelltoe for their trademark rubber shell-shaped toe piece, this iconic silhouette is regarded as one of the major influences in the rise of the modern day sneaker culture and continues to this very day.
one for the futu 33
ure
35
“ I remember getting them home, putting them up on my dresser and going to bed looking at them. Falling asleep, waking up and making sure they are still there!” Darryl ‘DMC’ McDaniels
37
41
All rights reserved 2016 Mark Manzi Photography(c)